FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

The most common cause of founder in cattle and horses is ____________.

1. Fescue Grass

2. Over Feeding

3. Under Feeding

4. Bloat

The correct answer is: Over Feeding

Overfeeding is the most common cause of founder, also known as laminitis, in cattle and horses. When animals are given excessive amounts of easily fermentable carbohydrates, such as grains or lush pasture, it can lead to an increase in glucose and insulin levels in the bloodstream. This sudden spike can cause changes in the blood supply to the hooves, leading to inflammation and painful laminitis. This condition occurs when there is an imbalance in the structure and function of the hoof, leading to severe pain and potentially causing the coffin bone to rotate or sink within the hoof capsule. Overfeeding, particularly in terms of rich carbohydrates, disrupts normal digestion and can result in a fermentative type of acidosis, which further exacerbates the risk of founder. In contrast, fescue grass can lead to other health issues in livestock due to its alkaloids but is not typically associated with founder. Underfeeding may lead to malnutrition and other metabolic disorders but is less likely to directly cause founder. Bloat, on the other hand, is primarily related to gas accumulation in the rumen and does not contribute to the development of laminitis. Therefore, overfeeding remains a critical risk factor in the incidence of founder in these animals.